Holiday makers are being warned to wash off sunscreen before getting into bed to avoid breakouts and skin irritation.
Sleep experts at WinstonsBeds.com have shared that sleeping with the product on can clog pores and lead to poor sleep hygiene.
Many jet setters will be loading up on SPF as they head abroad this summer and whilst this product is a necessity for visiting hot countries, it’s also important to remember to wash it off properly before calling it a day.
We’re advised to reapply sunscreen multiple times a day to reap its benefits and protect our skin from the sun.
But leaving it on our bodies overnight can be irritating to the skin and clog pores.
The sleep experts also state that the transfer of sun cream mixed with body oils to the bedding leads to poor sleep hygiene.
Many people may be rinsing their bodies in the shower but they are missing another important part – their face.
Rebecca Swain, sleep and mattress expert at WinstonsBeds said: “Sunscreen is a must on holiday and we should all be reapplying it multiple times a day to keep our face and bodies protected from the sun.
“What a lot of people aren’t aware of is that you should be completely washing it off at the end of each day. Many of us will already be doing this in the shower after spending hours sweating in the sun, but the majority of people forget to wash the SPF off of their faces.
“Sunscreen contains pretty heavy ingredients that trap sweat oil and dirt into the skin. When left on overnight it can clog pores and cause breakouts. Those with sensitive skin may also find it causes irritation.
“Ideally, the nighttime is where you’ll want to let your skin breathe from all of the SPF and bug spray you’ve applied in the day.”
Rebecca also goes on to explain how the combination of SPF and body oils at night affects our sleep hygiene.
She said: “Sun cream often has a heavy, thick and greasy texture which is not something you want transferring to your bedding.
“At night it’s natural to sweat and the combination of your body’s natural oils and SPF can leave your sheets with a horrible waxy feel the next time you get into bed.
“Before going to sleep, rinse off any remaining sun scream in the shower with warm water and body wash. Remember to cleanse your face as well with a gentle face wash before hitting the pillow.”
